§ Sir H. Webbeasked the Assistant Postmaster-General why a test of the trunk lines from London was recently carried out on a Monday morning causing considerable inconvenience to London firms; and whether in future he will conduct such tests at times when the lines are unlikely to be in demand for business purposes.
§ Mr. BurkeOrdinary testing of trunk lines for maintenance purposes is carried out during the night, and ceases at about 8 a.m. in order to avoid inconvenience during busy times. The only testing done during business hours is in connection with faulty circuits which are, of course, repaired and restored to service as early as possible. I have no knowledge of the specific occasion referred to in the Question, but if the hon. Member can give me particulars I will have further inquiry made.